Erasmus Experience in Gdansk, Poland

Why did you choose to go to Gdansk, Poland?

First of all, I chose Poland because I had lots of friends with good reports from this country, parties, lots of Erasmus students, low living cost... far from home... so the ideal place to reset my life, and to be happy! Gdansk was a city which I researched, which had similar subjects to those in my university, appealed to me because it's next to the sea, and it's located in the centre of Europe, which isn't only good in itself, but it allowed me to travel a lot. Gdansk and the sea, the typical streets, the snow, the beauty of life... everything!

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How long does the grant last? How much money do you get for help?

The grant lasts exactly the length of your stay. It depends on the home university, and on the number of people participating on Erasmus in the same academic year, and also on the budget that the national agency has. In my case, I got around 2500 euros for 5 months.

How is the student environment in Gdansk?

Very good. There's quite a marked academic environment, lots of parties and get-togethers. There's even a nightclub in the university, open almost 24 hours a day!

Would you recommend the city and the University of Gdansk to other students?

Of course. The university has a giant campus, with lots of different facilities! My department was very modern, and with lots of facilites.

How is the country's food?

The food isn't very good quality, for those who appreciate their food, go to the supermarket and you'll find similar products to those in Portugal, the same brands, but cheaper and not as tasty.

How did you find accommodation?

Through the ESN group, from my home university.

How are the accommodation prices? And the prices in general?

The accommodation is accessible, I paid about €125 per month, for a giant house, with bills and NET included. In general things are reasonably-prices, the food and transport are very cheap!

How's the language? Did you attend a language course at the university?

The language is a bit complicated. I attended some Polish classes, but only for fun! Personally, I love learning new languages, and although Polish didn't appeal to me, it's always a distinct experience!

It's good to have a phrase book for the first few days, to know how to say/ask for the basics! The rest... is in English!

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What is the cheapest way to get to Gdansk from your city?

Low-cost flights. There's an airport in Gdansk!

Where would you recommend for a night out in Gdansk?

I would recommend the two big nightclubs and social places: Nowa Republika, close to the campus and the student bar Kwadratowa, in the university, which is the best. In the old town... the Irish Pub is also a good choice!

And to eat out in Gdansk? Can you name your favourite places?

Rubus Bar, amazing!

And in terms of cultural visits?

Walk and walk in the old town! It's beautiful and has so much to admire... visit the Gdansk Museum, go in all the churches... don't forget to visit the Cathedral, and obviously, go to Sopot and Gdynia, there are beaches there!

Do you have any advice you'd like to give future students in Gdansk?

Yes: Without doubt, don't think twice, Gdansk, you'll be veryyyyyyy happyyyyyyyy there!